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CAMP XLC Nanotech - Automatic

Aluminum crampons weigh about half that of their steel counterparts,
making them the choice for snow climbing and glacier travel. Trouble is,
aluminum front points can bend if you kick them into hard water ice,
limiting their use on technical routes.

The XLC Nanotech is the first of what I suspect will be a new breed of
composite crampons—the frame is 7075 aluminum, but the front points are
stainless steel. Specifically, Sandvik Nanoflex steel, an alloy C.A.M.P.
says is 60 percent stronger than regular steel. The steel points extend
the crampon’s durability and let you tackle hard ice such as that found
in spring couloirs, or scratch up the odd patch of rock. For climbs
such as Rainier, Hood, Mont Blanc, even the volcanoes down in Mex and
Peru, they can do the job nicely and survive the return trip. Another
nice touch: The flexible crampons adjust in seconds to accommodate a
wide range of boot sizes.

The XLC Nanotech is available in two binding styles. Pick the Fast (clip
on) design for boots that can take a heel and toe bail.

ABOUT THE RATING

I considered the nearly $200 price for this crampon and demoted it one star.